Lacrosse Playground

DETROIT — There was a lot competition on campus on Wednesday, but instead of counting runs or goals, it was all about the smiles on kid’s faces as Detroit hosted a Special Olympics Day on Wednesday.

“Anytime the opportunity comes to work with the Special Olympics is a real honor,” said Amy Paling, Assistant Director of Compliance & Academic Coordinator. “It was great to see all the kids laughing and playing and our student-athletes did a wonderful job organizing all of the activities.”

This event is in conjunction with Dr. Antoine Garibaldi’s Presidential Inauguration. To continue the great tradition of the University engaging in the community, the faculty, staff, alumni and students are joining in the celebration of Dr. Garibaldi’s inauguration by participating in Community Engagement Activities.

Members of the Special Olympics Detroit were on campus to learn, play and interact with Titan student-athletes from the men’s and women’s cross country, track and field, men’s soccer, women’s lacrosse and men’s and women’s basketball teams.

The event started in the morning with the kids participating in track events. It was not all about running as the children got a chance to learn and practice the high and long jump on Titan Field.

From there, the kids made the walk to the auxiliary grass playing field behind the Titan Tennis Complex to participate in soccer and lacrosse. The teams learned soccer skills before the men’s team set up the field for two scrimmages.

The women’s lacrosse team then introduced everyone to their sport and it was all hands-on as the kids were able to get a lacrosse stick and learn how to shoot and catch. The final part of their presentation was a chance to score as the kids showcased what they learned by firing some shots on Titan goalkeeper Melissa Anderson.

After lunch, the kids got a real treat as they went inside Calihan Hall for some open gym with the men’s and women’s basketball squads. They were treated to some early dunks from Doug Anderson, who ended the day with a “WOW” factor as he jumped over three kids to slam it down.